Hamburg’s operational program for the 2021–2027 ERDF funding period is built around two main priorities. One of them — Funding Priority 2 — focuses on making the city greener and more climate-resilient by supporting investments in reducing CO₂ emissions and promoting a shift toward a carbon-neutral economy.

However, as the program itself notes, Hamburg has not yet achieved its planned emissions reduction targets. By 2019, CO₂ emissions had only dropped by 25.2% compared to 1990 levels — falling short of expectations.

So far, the program’s climate efforts have mainly supported energy efficiency upgrades in public buildings, which is an important step in cutting greenhouse gases. However, to unlock more potential and meet broader climate goals, the transition to a carbon-neutral economy must go further.

As a major port city, Hamburg’s maritime industry — including port infrastructure and shipping — plays a significant role in the local economy and should be included in the green transformation. This is currently missing from the program. For this reason, the Ministry of Economy and Innovation of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg (LP) wants to expand the program to address onshore power supply (OPS) and the decarbonization of the maritime sector.

The LP’s aim is to align the ERDF program more closely with Hamburg’s green ambitions by incorporating OPS as a new funding objective. This addition would better integrate the port industry into the city’s climate strategy and support efforts already underway to reduce port-related emissions.

Providing a dedicated funding stream for OPS would help accelerate the rollout of such facilities in the Port of Hamburg. OPS allows ships to plug into the local electric grid while docked, reducing the need to run diesel engines and significantly cutting emissions.

The project is already generating valuable insights and lessons learned about OPS. These will be used to make the case for OPS as a long-term investment priority. One key area of interest is mobile OPS solutions — systems that can provide flexible power connections for different types of ships. Hamburg is planning a dedicated study to explore how these solutions could help scale OPS more efficiently across the port.

These findings — along with requirements, best practices, and technical solutions gathered in collaboration with project partners — will help illustrate the benefits of OPS and highlight the need for stronger support. The results will inform local policy development and support a broader push for climate-friendly port operations.

Importantly, the LP has a close working relationship with Hamburg’s ERDF managing authority, which is part of the Hamburg Ministry of Economy and Innovation — the LP’s own ministry. This strong cooperation creates a solid foundation for integrating these new priorities into the existing funding framework and for ensuring that the maritime sector plays a key role in Hamburg’s path toward a greener future.

Between 2021 and 2027, EUR 388 million has been allocated to the Normandy region under the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), with additional support from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the Just Transition Fund (JTF), contributing EUR 85 million and EUR 103 million respectively. This funding supports five strategic priorities aimed at strengthening Normandy’s economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion:

1. Driving smart and innovative economic transformation
2. Accelerating the ecological and energy transition while strengthening environmental protection
3. Promoting sustainable urban mobility
4. Enhancing Normandy’s cultural and tourism assets
5. Supporting balanced regional development through citizen and stakeholder engagement

While the current programme already takes important steps toward a greener future, there is room for improvement, particularly when it comes to reducing emissions from the maritime sector. As a coastal region with a strong port economy, Normandy can benefit greatly from integrating Onshore Power Supply (OPS) — a clean technology that enables ships to plug into the local power grid instead of using polluting fossil fuels while docked.

OPS fits naturally under Priority 2, which focuses on the environment and energy transition. By exploring ways to incorporate OPS within the current programme — even through pilot projects or targeted funding windows — Normandy can support cleaner air, reduce greenhouse gas emissions in port areas, and lead by example in maritime decarbonisation. It also supports Priority 5 by involving local stakeholders, such as port authorities, energy providers, and municipalities, in building a more sustainable regional future.

Looking ahead, the next funding programme (2028–2034) presents a vital opportunity to go further. Lessons learned from the current period can help shape a more comprehensive and ambitious strategy — one that fully supports the greening of port infrastructure, closes the gap between maritime and environmental policy, and contributes meaningfully to both regional and EU-wide climate goals.

By starting to integrate OPS now, Normandy positions itself at the forefront of innovation in green port development. This approach not only improves public health and environmental quality but also strengthens the region’s role in Europe’s clean energy transition.

Rotterdam’s commitment to a cleaner, climate-neutral port and city is embodied in the Shore-Power Strategy Rotterdam Port (Strategie Walstroom Rotterdamse Haven), a joint initiative between the City of Rotterdam and the Port of Rotterdam. The strategy outlines the ambition that by 2030, at least 90% of ferries, offshore vessels, cruise ships, and container ships will use onshore power while at berth. This aims to reduce emissions by approximately 200,000 tons of CO₂ and 2,500 tons of nitrogen by 2030 — significantly improving local air quality and contributing to broader climate targets. The strategy rests on three pillars: 

1. Improving quality of life by reducing emissions in port and urban areas, 
2. Taking bold steps in segments where rapid progress is possible (e.g., cruise and ferry), 
3. Encouraging innovation and standardisation to address barriers and accelerate roll-out. 

Within the BREEZE project, Rotterdam is focusing on this third pillar: leveraging international exchange and research to strengthen its policy approach. Through collaboration with European partners and insights from technical and policy studies, BREEZE enables Rotterdam to revise and improve its strategy, especially in response to current challenges such as grid congestion, rising electricity costs, and technical uncertainties. 

One key outcome of the BREEZE participation is the refinement of Rotterdam’s policy instrument—ensuring it remains fit for purpose as conditions evolve. This includes: 

• Incorporating lessons learned from other European ports, 
• Updating feasibility and impact assessments to reflect the realities of grid access and flexibility, 
• Enhancing prioritisation for OPS deployment based on ship types, terminal readiness, and expected impact. 

The strategy also provides the basis for OPS-related subsidies, innovation pilots, and research. For instance, support is given for the roll-out of OPS infrastructure, development of flexible electricity systems (including local generation and storage), and exploration of OPS for non-obliged ship segments. This data- and innovation-driven approach ensures Rotterdam can adapt as new technologies and regulations emerge. 

Importantly, BREEZE supports the broader vision of the Rotterdam strategy: contributing to policy development at national and European level. The City and Port of Rotterdam aim not only to implement but also help shape future OPS policy by feeding findings into the national Shore-Power Strategy and relevant EU forums. This ensures alignment between local ambition and wider regulatory frameworks, particularly under the AFIR regulation on alternative fuels infrastructure. 

The Shore-Power Strategy provides a national vision for shore power in Dutch ports, and Rotterdam plays a key role in its implementation. Through BREEZE, the city contributes practical experience and policy improvements that can be scaled or adapted elsewhere in the Netherlands, thus supporting a coherent and effective national approach. 

The management of the Rotterdam strategy is evolving as part of this process. With new external pressures—including grid capacity constraints and updated air quality legislation—the strategy will undergo regular updates. This ensures the policy instrument remains agile and forward-looking, able to respond to both local needs and international obligations. 

In summary, through the BREEZE project, Rotterdam is not only accelerating its own shore power roll-out but also improving the way it manages and updates its strategy, in line with European goals and Dutch national efforts. It exemplifies how local policy, supported by international cooperation, can drive systemic change toward cleaner and more sustainable ports.

Flemish sea ports — Antwerp-Bruges, North Sea Port (Ghent), and Ostend — are vital to both the Flemish and Belgian economies. Together, they support 1,950 companies, provide over 227,000 jobs, and contribute €33.6 billion in added value. As global gateways for goods and trade, these ports must also evolve in response to environmental and regulatory challenges, including the recent European Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). One such challenge is reducing emissions from ships while they are docked. Currently, most vessels keep their auxiliary engines running to power onboard systems, contributing to both air and noise pollution — especially concerning in densely populated areas near ports, such as in Flanders.

A promising solution is Onshore Power Supply (OPS), which allows ships to connect to the local electricity grid while at berth and shut off their engines. This reduces emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, offering direct health benefits for nearby communities and supporting broader climate objectives. At the same time, OPS significantly reduces noise emissions, which are often overlooked but affect the quality of life for residents living near port areas. The constant hum of ship engines and generators, day and night, contributes to sleep disturbance and stress. OPS provides a quieter, cleaner alternative.

While OPS is recognised as a future-oriented technology in the Flemish Port Strategy, its full integration into port operations has yet to be realised. Financial, technical, and legal uncertainties still pose challenges. Of the available policy instruments—environmental legislation, police regulations, the port decree, and the Flemish Port Strategy—the latter is best suited to guide and support the systematic development of OPS across sea ports.

The Flemish Port Strategy, introduced in 2022, is built around three objectives: enhancing global competitiveness, supporting economic growth and employment, and growing the added value. To achieve these objectives the Flemish Port Strategy identifies some focus points, of which achieving a green transition and promoting innovation are examples. OPS aligns most directly with the focus points of achieving a green transition and promoting innovation. By enabling cleaner and quieter port operations, OPS not only reduces emissions but also modernises port infrastructure in a way that reflects current and future needs.

OPS also indirectly supports infrastructure resilience by requiring coordinated investments in local electricity networks, quay installations, and ship adaptations. These upgrades strengthen long-term operational reliability and environmental compliance. However, to fully unlock these benefits, more targeted action is needed within the policy framework.

This is where the BREEZE project provides added value. BREEZE supports the Flemish Department of Mobility and Public Works in refining the port strategy to accelerate OPS adoption. It helps identify potential financial mechanisms such as subsidies and investment models, clarifies regulatory options, and ensures alignment with European and national targets. By doing so, BREEZE makes it easier for all port stakeholders to move toward a consistent, scalable approach.
By updating the Flemish Port Strategy through the insights offered by BREEZE, the region can create a practical path to deploy OPS more widely by 2030. This not only supports compliance with EU law but also addresses the growing public demand for cleaner air, less noise, and more responsible port development.

The integration of OPS is more than a technical improvement—it is a concrete step toward healthier communities, climate resilience, and future-proof port infrastructure. In doing so, Flanders positions itself as a region where economic strength and environmental care go hand in hand.

The Port of Koper is Slovenia’s only international multipurpose cargo port and a key player in the national economy, logistics, and coastal development. However, as part of the EU's Fit for 55 climate targets, the port must also reduce its environmental footprint — particularly through the introduction of Onshore Power Supply (OPS), which allows ships to plug into the local grid while docked, cutting harmful emissions (and noise emissions).

The legal foundation for OPS and other clean transport solutions in Slovenia is the Alternative Fuels Strategy in the Transport Sector (S AGvP), adopted in 2017. This strategy was developed in line with EU Directive 2014/94/EU and outlined steps for the development of alternative fuel infrastructure, including in the maritime sector. It was supported by an Action Plan that promoted innovation, removed legal barriers, introduced funding measures, and launched pilot projects.

Since then, EU regulations have evolved, and expectations for cleaner port operations have increased. In response, Slovenia adopted the Act on Infrastructure for Alternative Fuels and Promoting the Transition to Alternative Fuels in Transport (ZIAG) in 2023 (Official Gazette RS 62/23). Article 23 of this law introduces clear obligations for OPS implementation in the Port of Koper.

While ZIAG has strengthened the legal framework, it is the S AGvP that remains the main strategic policy instrument — and this is where improvements are now most needed. The strategy, last updated in 2017, does not yet reflect recent EU legislation, current technical requirements, or financial and operational realities related to OPS. It must be revised to fully support the rollout of OPS and to address remaining gaps, such as:

• Lack of coordination between authorities and operators,
• Unclear responsibilities for funding, construction, and maintenance of OPS,
• Limited guidance on electricity pricing, taxation, and integration with the national grid.

To address these challenges, Slovenia is currently working on a new National Policy Framework (NPF) for alternative fuels, aligned with the EU’s updated AFIR Regulation (EU 2023/1804). This upcoming framework will build directly on the improved S AGvP and provide more detailed, targeted measures — especially for maritime transport and OPS.

The new NPF, expected by the end of 2025, will focus on:

• Identifying national and EU funding sources for OPS infrastructure,
• Overcoming technical and administrative barriers (e.g., permitting, grid connection),
• Exploring infrastructure for other alternative fuels (hydrogen, ammonia, LNG),
• Defining clear roles and responsibilities for OPS development and operation.

As of now, the Port of Koper does not yet have OPS infrastructure that meets EU requirements. Like many ports, it faces complex challenges — from legal and technical uncertainties to questions around investment models and energy demand. Addressing these requires close coordination across sectors and strong policy guidance.

This is where the BREEZE project comes in. The project supports Luka Koper and relevant national ministries by offering expert insights, good practices from across Europe, and concrete input for the development of the new NPF. BREEZE helps clarify the steps needed to implement OPS, from business models to financing and technical standards.

By shaping the new NPF with input from BREEZE, Slovenia is setting the stage for cleaner, future-ready ports. This will benefit not just the maritime industry, but also local communities and the environment — aligning the country with EU climate goals while ensuring practical, well-managed implementation.

Spain’s port system plays a central role in the national economy. It includes 46 ports of general interest, managed by 28 Port Authorities, with overall coordination provided by Puertos del Estado (State Ports Agency). Together, these ports generate around 1.1% of Spain’s GDP and provide nearly 275,000 jobs—100,000 directly and another 175,000 indirectly. 

In the face of climate change and stricter European regulations, Spain’s ports are preparing for a major transformation. Under Regulation (EU) 2023/1804, all EU Member States must ensure that Onshore Power Supply (OPS) is available for container and passenger ships at berth by 2030. OPS allows ships to connect to shore-side electricity instead of using polluting onboard fuel while docked, significantly reducing emissions in port areas. 

At present, most of the Spanish ports do not have OPS infrastructure capable of meeting these new requirements. Like many other European ports, they face multiple obstacles: a lack of standardised legal and business frameworks, unclear responsibilities for investment and operations, limited data on ship energy demands, and insufficient funding mechanisms. 

To address these challenges, Spain relies on its main port planning tool — the Spanish Strategic Port Framework (Marco Estratégico – Sistema Portuario de interés general). Approved in October 2022 by the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, this framework sets the strategic direction for Spanish state-owned ports. Developed by Puertos del Estado and the Port Authorities, the Framework defines strategic goals and adapts port policy to new social, economic, and environmental realities. 

OPS is included in the Framework’s strategic pillar called “eco-proactive ports,” which prioritises environmental action. Key targets include: 

• A 50% reduction in ports’ carbon footprint (compared to 2019), 
• At least 50% of port energy sourced from renewables or carbon-neutral fuels, 
• Full electrification of ports according to demand. 

Despite this strategic commitment, the Framework currently lacks specific implementation tools and operational guidance for OPS deployment. That’s where Fundación Valenciaport (FV) and the BREEZE project come in. 

As part of the BREEZE project, Fundación Valenciaport will work closely with the Port Authority of Valencia (a State-owned port and therefore part of Puertos del Estado) to develop practical solutions and guidance to accelerate the implementation of OPS across Spain’s ports. The project will provide valuable input to support and improve the management of the Strategic Framework by offering: 

• A comprehensive implementation guide for OPS in Spanish ports, including step-by-step actions, best practices, and recommendations to overcome current legal, technical, and financial barriers; 
• A national demand study to assess energy needs and support planning of the electricity transmission grid infrastructure across all ports. 

These outputs will directly address the current gaps in the Strategic Framework, offering a clearer path for action and enabling Spanish ports to comply with EU regulations in a timely and efficient manner. The guide and study will also serve as core reference materials in national policy discussions and strategic planning forums. 

By contributing solid data, practical know-how, and policy recommendations, the BREEZE project will empower Fundación Valenciaport and the wider Spanish ports network to not only meet European environmental goals, but also to address sustainability in port management in line with Spain’s broader sustainability and innovation agenda.

Republic of Serbia, a Western Balkan country and EU candidate, is actively aligning its national regulations with European standards, particularly in environmental protection under the Green Agenda. As a landlocked nation with around 1,000 km of navigable inland waterways, Serbia’s strategic position is strengthened by the Danube, Sava, and Tisa rivers, which facilitate international transport and economic exchange.

Serbia currently has 11 international ports and 10 international passenger terminals in operation. The Port Governance Agency serves as the central port authority for all ports and terminals in Serbia and was established under the Law on Navigation and Ports on Inland Waters. Serbian  legal framework  indicates that improving the environmental performance of water transport is crucial for achieving the goals of environmental protection and nature conservation in the exploitation of inland waterways, although funding and infrastructure development remain key challenges.
The Strategy on Waterborne Transport Development (2015–2025) outlines Serbia’s long-term goals to:

• Increase inland traffic by 35% compared to 2012,
• Modernise the national fleet,
• Support domestic shipping companies and employment,
• Streamline customs and administrative procedures,
• Achieve full water traffic supervision across national waterways.

However, environmental aspects such as OPS are not yet fully integrated into the strategy, reflecting past priorities where inland waterways were not seen as a primary focus. As Serbia moves towards EU accession and deeper integration with the TEN-T Rhine-Danube Corridor, aligning its waterborne transport strategy with EU environmental goals has become more urgent.

BREEZE offers a critical opportunity to revise and strengthen Serbia’s inland waterway policy instrument. The project enables Serbia to:

• Learn from EU Member States’ best practices in OPS implementation;
• Participate in interregional workshops and peer exchanges;
• Gain technical insights into OPS feasibility, deployment, and funding models;
• Prepare a realistic and effective roadmap for introducing OPS systems;
• Position inland ports as green gateways that meet EU environmental standards.

These insights are vital as Serbia begins shaping its next 10-year strategy for waterborne transport. OPS, a requirement under EU regulations from 2030 onward, was not previously prioritised. Through BREEZE, Serbia can now address this gap proactively, with a clear understanding of OPS’s benefits and implementation pathways.

The Port Governance Agency, as the centralised port authority, plays a vital central role in incorporating the project’s outcomes into policymaking. Its involvement in BREEZE strengthens Serbia’s institutional capacity to propose and support necessary regulatory updates, infrastructure investment plans, and technical standards aligned with EU expectations.

The knowledge exchange facilitated by BREEZE supports Serbia’s efforts to harmonize with European legislation. It also helps ensure that when Serbia joins the EU, its inland waterway infrastructure and environmental standards will be compatible with the Union’s goals for sustainable and resilient transport systems.
In essence, BREEZE empowers Serbia to modernize its inland waterway policy, embed sustainability into future planning, and ensure that OPS becomes a cornerstone of a greener transport strategy. The revised approach will promote cleaner energy use in ports, improve air quality, and prepare Serbia’s waterways to contribute to both national development and European integration.

The Transport Plan for the Azores 2021-2030 is intended to define the strategy for the decade 2021-2030, corresponding to the challenges for the air, maritime and road sectors, in a perspective of sustainable and economically efficient transport, meeting the needs of mobility and accessibility of people and goods, defined with the creation of objectives, measures and targets, with identification of the investments considered priorities for the Azores.

To guarantee the competitiveness and operability of the ports, the plan includes:
- Upgrading and expanding ports to improve safety conditions and operational efficiency.
- Modernization of port equipment to optimize the transport of goods and passengers.
- Introduction of new technologies and digitalization of port processes, making operations faster and more efficient.
The plan includes a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, promoting measures to reduce the maritime sector's ecological footprint, such as:
- Studies into the adoption of alternative and more sustainable fuels on vessels;
- Promoting renewable energies in ports;
- Renewing the maritime fleet, making it more efficient and less polluting.

The plan recognizes the strategic role of ports in the region's development, ensuring mobility, supply and sustainable economic growth. With these investments the Azorean port sector will be better prepared for future challenges, ensuring territorial cohesion and the population’s well-being.